“Sport is hearty, with the former GB hockey captain as director of sport. The equestrian centre has to be seen to be believed; the swimming pool is state of the art… [there’s] floodlit tennis courts, the music centre and a swanky new recording studio”. Tatler Schools Guide

Education at Kilgraston is certainly not limited to the classroom. We actively encourage all forms of creativity, community service and personal challenge, and recognise the importance of experiencing a wide range of activities and opportunities in order for girls to develop as rounded, confident individuals. Our co-curricular activities are integrated seamlessly with our core curriculum, and girls see their ‘extra’ activities as a fundamental part of their education. Our girls excel on the playing field, on the stage and in the orchestra, and are as likely to be seen in wellingtons as they are in their tartan sashes!

The majority of girls at Kilgraston learn a musical instrument and there are many opportunities to perform in concerts, choirs and performances at school and throughout the country.

Our theatre provides the ideal setting to experience drama; an important, popular and rewarding part of the curriculum. Participation in drama is extremely beneficial in building communication and teamwork skills, whilst enjoying an enormous amount of fun.

The school’s reputation for Art & Design is legendary with many past pupils gaining national recognition. From the beautiful surroundings of the department balcony, with Central Hall below, girls have the opportunity to study a range of art disciplines across traditional and new media.

Co-curricular activities

Optional co-curricular activities (compulsory for boarders) take place between 4.30pm and 5.30pm and again between 5.30pm and 6.30pm each weekday. Although optional for Day Pupils, we consider co-curricular activity to be an important and integral part of school life and encourage everyone to take part in at least one activity per week.

All pupils are encouraged to take part in sport regardless of age or ability and activities are varied from yoga and fencing to team sports such as hockey, netball and tennis. The Equestrian Centre also provides keen horse-riders with the opportunity to enjoy and practice their riding both after school and at the weekend.

For those with specialist interests, there are many clubs and activities available including drama, debating and book club.

The girls are also encouraged to participate in The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme which is key to much of the outdoor education programme, and an opportunity to take part in an adventurous and challenging array of expeditions and projects, including weekend treks across the spectacular scenery of the nearby Scottish Highlands and Islands.

Every school weekend there is a full programme of outings and activities to suit all tastes ensuring that no Kilgraston boarder will ever feel bored! Activities include cultural trips, outdoor activities and social events and dances with our brother school, Merchiston. The girls have their own social committees and organise a wide range of parties, balls and meals.

For older girls

In the Sixth Form at Kilgraston, girls are encouraged to supplement their academic studies with a variety of extra-curricular activities, providing them with the opportunity to enhance their Sixth Form experience and learn additional skills.

All Upper Sixth girls attend a Presentation Skills course which provides invaluable guidance and practice on communication and presenting skills, providing invaluable preparation for university and life beyond.

All Sixth Formers have weekly Sixth Form Studies sessions which include careers talks and visits from guest speakers from universities across the UK.

Leadership Days at Kilgraston provide Sixth Formers with the chance to increase their confidence and develop important skills. Leadership workshops this year included sessions with Paralympian medalist Karen Darke and successful US lawyer Ann Miller.

Sixth Formers are also actively involved in the community of the school and in helping younger pupils from the Prep School up to the Senior School. The Upper Sixth are provide younger pupils with a friendly face and someone to talk through the BFG (Big Friendly Girls) mentoring initiative.